The Edo Development Network unequivocally condemns the recent actions taken by the Police Special Squads targeting leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo Central, predominantly within Esan Central LGA.

This outrageous operation has led to numerous party members fleeing and seeking refuge to avoid persecution, thereby enabling the All Progressives Congress (APC) to wield its rigging apparatus to intimidate opposition and distort the electoral process.

Among those atrociously apprehended in this crackdown are:
1. Ehikioya Clifford
2. Friday Adams
3. Obehi Stanley

These individuals were forcefully taken from their homes in Irua, Esan Central LGA — notably the same locality as Monday Okpebholo — by heavily-armed police personnel who arrived in several mini-van Siena vehicles. Currently, these leaders are being transferred to Benin City.

This despicable act directly contravenes the assurances given by the Presidency that all necessary measures would be taken to ensure a fair and level playing field for all political parties and participants. The arrest and detention of these PDP leaders represent a severe blow to the integrity of our electoral process and is a clear strategy to browbeat and suppress legitimate political competition.

We demand the immediate and unconditional release of the detained PDP leaders. This is imperative to restore the much-needed confidence in the democratic process ahead of the upcoming elections. Any further continuance of these autocratic tactics not only demeans our democratic values but also threatens the peace and stability of our beloved state.

We call upon all relevant authorities, including the National Human Rights Commission and other civil society organizations, to intervene promptly and effectively to halt these injustices. It is crucial that these acts of intimidation and manipulation are nipped in the bud to safeguard the democratic rights of the Edo Central electorate and ensure that they can freely and transparently exercise their voting rights without coercion or fear.

The Edo Development Network remains steadfast in its commitment to advocating for a democratic, fair, and peaceful electoral process. We urge the public, political stakeholders, and the international community to join us in condemning these unlawful actions and in demanding justice for those unjustly detained.

Signed,

Bar Abu Osara
Advocacy Lead
Edo Development Network